Looking at Lyngsat's satellite replacement list through 2015. I see no replacements for satellites like AMC 7 & 8, Galaxy 25(defective), or AMC 6 and others that you would think might need to be replaced by then. There is always failures that could happen too. I know there is a ton of space available on North America birds, but no replacements on the list kinda worries me about the future of satellite transmission. Any thoughts, or am I just worried about nothing? Been watching C/Ku Band since the mid 80's. Would hate to see it go away. Thanks.

Pub Member / Supporter

Satellite still has some advantages over terrestrial distribution/broadcasting. I don't see that changing. Cost for replacing satellites is very expensive and with the economy as it is I don't doubt the replacment schedule is slowing down, but technology is allowing longer lifetimes for satellites and it may be possible to service them in the near future (re-fuel etc). I think satellites are going to be around for a long time!

Pub Member / Supporter

Well, Galaxy 12 and SES 3 are on orbit, appearing like 'spares'. Just need to be moved, to where ever, when needed. It's like they are saving them for when it's the last option. Heard/read that the AMC3 "numbers" have been re-crunched, so received an extension to the operation permit. Might be another year before SES 3 takes the spot.
I don't see it ever 'going away', but may see some 'changes' as needs change.

Pub Member / SupporterCorporate Pub Member / Supporter

Why would satellite launches be made two years ahead of retirement on these AMC satellites?
AMC 1 Launched in 2000 with 15 year design life
AMC 7 Launched in 2000 with 15 year planned life expectancy
AMC 8 Launched in 2000 with 15 year planned life expectancy

Galaxy 25 has no malfunction and was retired from heavy C/KU payload at the 97w orbital slot moved into KU only operation in 2009. With the reduced payload demands, it may last several more years. G25 has several more years of fuel and far away from the need to settle into a declined orbit. It appears that Intelsat has at least three platforms in production with planned replacement schedules and three replacements completed in 2012. These new birds have 18 year life expectancy. They would appear to have significant inventory to relocate if an issue occurs.

More 24/7 satellite channels are available at this time than at any point of DTH. Why the concern?

Just used to seeing replacements on the schedule and it just seems to have slowed down to a stop. It's great if the satellites are lasting longer than before, as long as they don't quit working like some have in the past. Guess I'll just enjoy the satellites we now have. I didn't realize that AMC 7 & 8 had 15 year life. I was thinking more like 12 on those. That was what was causing my concern. Thanks for your help guys.

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